The shift lever equips the shift lock function.
Also, the parking pin switch is used for one of the key interlock system and installed on the shift lever, and sends the parking position signal (shift lever is in P position/mode) to the Multiplex Integrated Control Unit (MICU). The MICU controls that the ignition key can be pulled out from the key cylinder only when the shift lever is in P position/mode.

The shift lock system prevents the shift lever from moving unless certain conditions are met. The shift lock solenoid is normally OFF. After starting the engine in P position/mode, the shift lock stop prevents the shift lever from moving to any other positions/modes from P position/mode. When the brake pedal is pressed and the accelerator pedal is not pressed, the PCM commands the shift lock solenoid ON; the shift lock solenoid plunger in the shift lock solenoid pulls the shift lock stop to release the lock pin. Pressing the shift lever button allows the shift lever to move to any other positions/modes. When the brake pedal and the accelerator pedal are pressed at the same time, the PCM commands the shift lock solenoid OFF and the shift lock system is locked.

When the shift lock system does not operate due to mechanical or electrical problem, you can unlock the shift lock temporarily by inserting the ignition key into the shift lock release hole and pressing the shift lock release. When the shift lock release is pressed, the shift lock stop releases the lock pin, and the shift lever can move to any other positions/modes.